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Geriatric nurses provide specialized care, treatment, and counseling for elderly patients, including performing assessments, assisting with diagnostic tests, and tailoring treatment to specific needs. They face unique challenges due to aging, such as susceptibility to falls and cognitive difficulties. A master’s degree in nursing is required, and they may work in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, or home care companies.
A geriatric nurse provides specialist care, treatment and counseling for elderly patients. A professional performs diagnostic tests, checks vital signs, and assists doctors with treatment procedures for a variety of medical conditions. Additionally, a geriatric nurse can help a patient engage in physical therapy exercises and educate family members about their loved ones’ situation. Most nurses are employed in general hospitals and nursing homes, although some professionals work in specialist clinics, private practices and home care companies.
Doctors and nurses who care for elderly patients face unique challenges. Due to the weakening of the bones and immune system that often accompanies aging, an older patient is more susceptible to traumatic falls and debilitating illnesses. Additionally, patients may have cognitive difficulties resulting from disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, which can create additional difficulties for caregivers. A geriatric nurse understands the issues faced by older patients and tailors treatment to their specific needs.
A geriatric nurse professional working in a hospital or clinic is usually responsible for performing initial assessments on patients, assisting with diagnostic tests, and helping physicians determine the best treatment options. He or she helps patients dress, bathe, eat, and move around. A nurse may be responsible for designing an exercise routine for a recovering patient or explaining the details and prognosis of an illness. When friends or family members have concerns, the doctor can usually offer expert advice to help them deal with difficult circumstances.
Many geriatric nursing professionals work exclusively with patients diagnosed with specific conditions. For example, a professional might specialize in caring for people with cancer, terminal illnesses, broken bones, or osteoporosis. A specialist is able to employ their extensive knowledge of disease and aging to ensure that patients receive the best possible care for their delicate conditions.
Depending on the specific work environment, a geriatric nurse may be qualified to make diagnoses and prescribe medications without having to consult a doctor first. Many professionals who work in nursing homes and home health care facilities are the final authority on client care and management. They work directly with patients and supervise other nursing specialists to ensure quality care.
A master’s degree in nursing is required to become a geriatric nurse practitioner in most regions and countries. In addition to earning a degree, a new nurse often needs to complete a practical internship program and pass a series of licensing exams before working independently. Many seasoned nursing professionals choose to take administrative positions or become part-time college professors.
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